Special feed for Dutch 'high health' pigs

A network of Dutch pig farmers, veterinarians and animal nutritionists are
aiming to formulate a special feed for high health (SPF) pigs before the end of
the year.

The farmers in the network all work with high health animals and the feed
will also be tested at some of the network member's farms.

Different feed strategySPF pigs have a higher health
status than 'normal (non SPF)' pigs. They demand a different composition of the
feed and a different feed strategy. In addition, the amino acid and energy
demand is probably different than non SPF pigs.

The commercial feeds that are currently used often result in a too low meat
percentage. Also the feed conversion can be better.

KnowledgeHowever, knowledge about the how to change the
diet to improve performance in high health pigs is limited. The farmers hope
that the new feed will make the pigs more profitable.

After a literature
review, the network will soon start with a brainstorm session with some
independent parties. Furthermore, they will discuss with feed companies how they
can better adjust the feed to the specific demands of high health pigs.